BA in Philosophy

What can I do with a BA in philosophy?

Majoring in philosophy helps students prepare for future careers by teaching them valuable intellectual skills, including how to:

Think rigorously

Express ideas clearly and logically

Understand and evaluate conflicting points of view

Reason in a careful way

Philosophy raises fundamental questions about ourselves and the world, which result in a sharpened perception of the value of our lives and an increased ability of analysis. Such critical ability enables students to better understand the world around them; to evaluate the values and social forms by which we live; to ask which values should have priority and why; to make judgments about how various social structures realize, or fail to realize, these values.

In addition to offering extensive courses on philosophical thought, the Philosophy Department supports the career interests of its students, offering courses in logic, medical ethics, business ethics, philosophy of law, various courses in social philosophy, philosophy of science, and philosophy of religion.

Career opportunities for philosophy majors include academics, law, business, public administration, journalism, health care and more. Some students become teachers of philosophy; others recognize it as excellent preparation for law school. Philosophy provides a valuable foundation for careers in communication, public administration and policy making by teaching the student how to identify and examine the underlying questions of values and methodology implied in every practical decision. The American Philosophical Association has on its Website an informative statement on Career Opportunities with a Philosophy Major.

What about philosophy as a second major?

This can be a great idea. Your first major likely raises questions about values or methodology that philosophy can explore; so philosophy can deepen and broaden your training in your first major. It can also enhance your intellectual skills—to question, to think seriously, and to speak clearly. So, a second major in philosophy can better prepare you for a profession in your first field or for graduate school.

Degree Requirements

All majors must take at least eleven (11) courses in philosophy. Seven of these courses must be at the 300-level (eight, if 301 is taken). Note that 300-level courses have a prerequisite of two philosophy course. Each student's major program must include:

Academic Advising

Students pursuing the BA in Philosophy degree should plan their selection of courses with the Philosophy Undergraduate Director, or with their designated advisor, or with a member of the Philosophy Undergraduate Majors and Minors Committee each semester prior to registration.

Double-Dipping Policy

Students may not major and minor in the same discipline.

Majors: Not less than 21 credit hours in the individual student’s transcript must be unique to each major; that is, the courses in question are considered as actually fulfilling requirements of one major, not of more than one major.

Minors and interdisciplinary minors: not less than 8 credit hours in the individual student’s transcript must be unique to each minor; that is, the courses in question are considered as actually fulfilling requirements of one minor, not of more than one minor or major.